Interview with Colleen O’Connell, Author of Pirate’s Prey

What can you tell us about your new release, Pirate’s Prey?

The theme of Pirate’s Prey revolves around power which has the ability to influence decisions, change lives and surpass the control of those who would believe they can harness its force. The story is set in late 17th century Ireland, England and America. Intricate schemes, grand battles and bold escapes entwine throughout the story of Shane Christian and Maura Brent whose unwavering love and perseverance fortify them against their adversaries who attempt to part them forever.

What or who inspired you to become an author?

My mother was an English teacher so I was inspired by her to appreciate words and phrasing. My father was a voracious reader. For me, the two came together early on. Even as a child, without conscious design, I always had some sort of story in mind with ‘what if’ scenarios. In my early school years, I began writing mini-biographies of my family, which contained a few sentences on notebook paper with taped on pictures of whomever I was writing about. My imagination was always working and nothing has changed over the years.

What’s on your top 5 list for the best books you’ve ever read?

Margaret Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind; Dean Koontz’s Lightening; Tom Clancy’s Patriot Games; Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird; and, The Autobiography if Errol Flynn: My Wicked, Wicked Ways.

Say you’re the host of a literary talk show. Who would be your first guest? What would you want to ask?

For a first guest, although many come to mind, I would choose Michelle Obama. I would love to ask her what the biggest challenge was in choosing her platform in which to promote. A follow-up question would be how did she respond to those who hoped to influence her or those who may have opposed her platform choice(s).

What’s your favorite thing about writing?

I truly enjoy the creation of a storyline and where it can take the characters. There are times I have a scene or outcome in mind and suddenly a thought comes that even surprises me as though the characters are driving the storyline. Sometimes what I think is going to occur changes completely.

What is a typical day like for you?

I have a full-time ‘day job’ that is all encompassing in regard to focus and time constraints. The evening is when I tend to write as that is when I am most creative in my thought process. Sleep becomes nearly secondary with many nights garnering only 5-6 hours at best.

What scene in Pirate’s Prey was your favorite to write?

Without providing any spoiler alerts, there is a scene early on where the hero and heroine clash with their matched stubbornness. The heroine, Maura Brent, defies yet another instruction of the hero, Shane Christian, as Captain of the ship. Following a battle of words, Maura, throws a bucket of water in Shane’s face to have the last word, or does she….?

Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?

The philosophy I consider often is to make memories now rather than waiting to experience the enjoyment of life’s beauty for another day.

Colleen O’Connell is the author of the new book Pirate’s Prey.

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